HCAOA Honors Caregivers This Labor Day

Labor Day has been a nationally celebrated holiday in the United States since 1894, and while industries like manufacturing are traditionally thought of when it comes to “labor,” in the home care industry our caregivers practice a labor of love. This holiday, and every day, the Home Care Association of America (HCAOA) honors frontline home care aides who are the lifelines for so many people particularly throughout the pandemic.

“Labor Day is a great opportunity for the home care industry to once again emphasize the valuable service more than 2 million home care aides bring to thousands of older Americans, individuals with disabilities, and children with complex medical conditions every day,” said HCAOA Executive Director Vicki Hoak. “Caregiving is a labor of love that should be respected and honored. We extend a sincere THANK YOU to all professional caregivers who enable Americans to remain in their own homes – living as independently as possible. Our frontline home care workers have undoubtedly saved thousands of lives by keeping the most vulnerable population to the coronavirus safe at home," added Hoak. 

Caregivers don’t just go through the motions of their day-to-day jobs. They bring care to individuals in their own homes, helping with daily activities while monitoring their conditions. They form strong relationships and many times become a member of the entire family. The types of bonds home care aides develop with their clients are unlike any other and require an individual with a high degree of compassion, dedication and professionalism.

"I cannot think of a job where someone can so directly impact the quality of life of an individual as private duty homecare. It can simultaneously be both the most challenging and the most rewarding work. Caregivers deserve our utmost respect for the work they do every day. Hats off to caregivers on this Labor Day!" said Pattie Rogers, Vice President and Director of Operations, Waverly Care Associates in Pennsylvania.

HCAOA member Dave Lamb, General Manager, CareMaster Medical Services in Georgia, said, “Every year America pauses on Labor Day to honor fellow Americans that work every day in all walks of life to support our families, each other, and all Americans. This year, and for the second consecutive year under the strain of COVID-19, America pauses on Labor Day to honor the caregivers and nurses that work so hard every day to allow the elderly and disabled to remain in their homes and communities. Thanks to each of you for your hard work and great care.” 

Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. once said, “No work is insignificant. All labor that uplifts humanity has dignity and importance and should be undertaken with painstaking excellence.” HCAOA values all direct care workers and hopes to continue to be a resource for all.